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Peltor HTRXS7 A There's something nice about not having any dangling cords around your head, and that's one of the best features of the earmuffs with built-In radios. The HTRXS7A is similar In function to the Elvex (see p. 48). An FM stereo radio is built into the earmuffs, which have de- Peltor HT7A-03 If you already own a portable radio with a headphone Jack, this unit makes economic sense. It comes with a sturdy spiral cable to plug into your favorite listening device. The stereo speakers perform well in the midand high ranges but don't put out much bass. The NRR Is 24 decibels, and the audio output goes to 82 decibels. Pro: Low price Con: Lacks bass Price: $99 Contact: Aearo at (800) 327-3431 or www.aearo.com cent speakers, although I'd like a bit more bass. Audio output is limited to 82 decibels, and the NRR is 24 decibels. There is no jack for connecting other audio devices_ The unit runs on two AA batteries. Pro: Better-than-average speakers Con: Limited to radio play Price: $150 Contact: Aearo at (800) 327-3431 or www.aearo.com Noise Cancellation Technologies PA-3000 You'd expect a company that makes acoustical speakers to make high-fidelity earmuffs, and Noise Cancellation Technologies (NCT) doesn't disappoint. Beside the best sound quality, the PA-3000 provides two-tiered hearing protection, both passive and through ANR electronics. The NRR is 21 decibels, but the ANR circuitry may provide up to 20 decibels of additional noise reduction for low-frequency sounds. (The ANR circuit is aimed at frequencies ranging from 50 to 500 hertz.) The electronics are quite effective at quieting rumbling machines such as compressors and thickness planers. In fact, the first time I used the unit, I thought my compressor was broken, so tinny was the sound Inside the headset. A portable listening device such as a radio or CD player may be plugged into the PA-3000. Because the audio-input limit Is a booming 120 decibels, you have to be careful not to rock too hard and blow your eardrums out. The PA-3000 comes with a recharge- able battery and charger. NCT also makes smaller, low-priced portable headphones with the ANR feature, which are perfect for airline travel. Pros: Best speakers; cool ANR feature Con: Exercise caution with the audio volume! Price: $189 Contact: NCT at (800) 278-3526 or www.nct-active.com Photos, Michael Pekovich MAY IJ UN E 2000 47